Can a senior center improve your health?

How important is social support as a person ages? This may seem like an easy question to answer. Most people would not choose isolation and loneliness versus spending time with friends and loved ones. However, can lack of social support really hinder a person’s overall quality of life?

In a word, yes.

Lack of social support is related to negative impacts on health and well-being, especially for seniors. Having a variety of positive social supports can contribute to psychological and physical wellness of the elderly. While the relationship between physical activity and vitality is well-documented, multiple recent studies have also revealed an increasingly stronger link between social interaction and mental and physical well-being for seniors.

When you think about it, most seniors have spent a considerable portion of their lives in the company of others – be it in the workplace or raising children. Upon reaching retirement age, and with children leaving the house, the opportunities for socialization often decrease, especially if the senior must rely on others for transportation. There is even a term now for seniors who are not married and have no children living nearby: Elder Orphans. There are Elder Orphan groups in many cities across the U.S., as well as on social media, as this group struggles to find adequate socialization in their lives.

Research has indicated that an active social lifestyle is more important than ever in helping seniors maintain a sharp mind, remain connected to the world around them, increase feelings of happiness, and develop a sense of belonging.

Various studies have shown that socializing can produce the following positive effects:

1. Improved mental health

Symptoms of depression and memory problems affect many seniors. In fact, approximately 7 million people over the age of 65 experience symptoms of depression. Having consistent human contact and interaction can reduce depression, recent studies revealed.

2. Improved nutrition

The need for proper nutrition is vital for seniors, but healthy habits can be difficult to maintain when living alone. It is estimated that approximately 35 percent of the elderly population suffer from malnutrition.

3. Improved physical health

Multiple studies have also revealed that an active social life can boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and reduce physical pain that is reinforced by depression.

So where can a senior go to socialize and reap all of its benefits? In Bay Village, it is the Dwyer Memorial Senior Center, where you will find a large offering of fitness, educational and social activities, with enough variety to appeal to nearly everyone. Here you will find several fitness programs designed to strengthen the participants and improve balance. We also offer many programs that include lunch, and on the first Tuesday of every month we host a senior produce market where seniors may pick up a variety of fresh produce at no cost. We also host speakers on a wide range of topics, some current, some historical, but something for everyone.

In addition, as transportation can become a major cause of isolation, Bay Village also offers a transportation service for residents age 60 and older, or disabled. Call 440-899-3410 for more information.

To find out more about our activities, call the Dwyer Center at 440-899-3409. If you don’t live in Bay Village but would like information on another Westshore senior center, please visit www.westshoreseniors.org.

Leslie Selig

Leslie Selig, Director of Community Services for the City of Bay Village

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Volume 10, Issue 5, Posted 9:32 AM, 03.06.2018